Carib Scope

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  • Sister Rejects Gang Claims in Brother’s New Year’s Eve Killing

    Sister Rejects Gang Claims in Brother’s New Year’s Eve Killing

    A Belize City family is confronting tragedy and challenging public perceptions after a fatal New Year’s Eve shooting that claimed the life of 45-year-old Ian Arthurs. The incident occurred at the intersection of Waight Street and Faber’s Road as Arthurs was dropping off his niece, Sherlyn Butler, shortly before midnight on December 31st.

    According to eyewitness accounts, multiple gunshots erupted in the area, initially mistaken for holiday fireworks. Both Arthurs and his niece were struck during the attack. Butler survived her injuries, but Arthurs succumbed to his wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.

    Sheryl Arthurs, the victim’s sister, provided a heartfelt defense of her brother’s character in the aftermath of the shooting. She vehemently rejected any suggestions that her brother was involved in criminal activities or gang affiliations, despite acknowledging that some of his acquaintances might have questionable connections.

    ‘I could put my head on the block one million and one times that my brother did nothing to nobody. He never killed anyone – I know that for a fact,’ Arthurs stated during an emotional interview. She described her brother as ‘the life of the party’ and a peaceful, well-loved individual within their community.

    The grieving sister also highlighted a concerning pattern of violence on Waight Street during New Year’s celebrations, which she characterized as having ‘its own curse or spirit.’ She further criticized the prevalence of illegal fireworks that mask the sound of gunshots, creating dangerous confusion during celebrations.

    Local law enforcement authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting and are pursuing active leads. The case has drawn attention to ongoing challenges with public safety during holiday celebrations in Belize City.

  • Vacancies: Chief of Protocol (MoFA) and Senior Planning Officer (MoE)

    Vacancies: Chief of Protocol (MoFA) and Senior Planning Officer (MoE)

    The Government of Grenada has officially announced two significant career opportunities within its public service sector, inviting applications from both internal and external candidates until January 30, 2026.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development seeks a Foreign Service Officer I/Chief of Protocol position requiring a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, Diplomacy, Law, or related disciplines. The ideal candidate must possess at least three years of public sector experience, preferably in diplomatic or governmental affairs, with demonstrated expertise in protocol management including coordination of state visits and high-level delegations. Advanced training in diplomatic studies or protocol procedures will be considered advantageous.

    Simultaneously, the Ministry of Education’s Division of Planning, Development and Research is recruiting a Senior Planning Officer requiring a Master’s degree in Management, Statistics, Education, or relevant fields. This role demands at least five years of middle management experience within research-driven environments, with comprehensive knowledge of educational legislation, policy matters, and performance management tools.

    Both positions offer identical salary structures ranging from $66,184 to $86,378 annually within Grade J, progressing through incremental points. Successful candidates must demonstrate core competencies including action orientation, strategic leadership, critical judgment, integrity, and technical expertise specific to their respective domains.

    Application requirements include submission of curriculum vitae, two reference letters (one from most recent employer), certified academic certificates, birth certificate, and police record. Public service employees must channel applications through their Permanent Secretary or Head of Department.

    All applications must be physically delivered to the Office of the Public Service Commission at Antillean Group Building, Ground Floor, Young Street, St. George’s, Grenada, attention Chief Personnel Officer (Ag). The selection process emphasizes candidates’ ability to maintain highest levels of confidentiality, professionalism, and decorum while contributing to Grenada’s public service excellence.

  • Cuban FM expresses grief after fire in Crans-Montana, Switzerland

    Cuban FM expresses grief after fire in Crans-Montana, Switzerland

    The Cuban government has extended its formal condolences to Switzerland following a devastating New Year’s Eve fire that killed approximately 40 people at a popular ski resort. Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister Bruno Rodríguez utilized social media platform X to convey his nation’s sympathy regarding the tragic incident.

    Minister Rodríguez explicitly stated: “Our deepest condolences for the human losses caused by the fire,” while simultaneously expressing “solidarity with the people and government of Switzerland and with the families of the victims.” The diplomatic message additionally included wishes for the prompt recovery of those injured in the blaze.

    The catastrophic event occurred in the early hours of January 1st at approximately 01:30 local time within Le Constellation bar, located in the Crans-Montana ski resort within Switzerland’s Valais canton. The establishment was reportedly crowded with international visitors celebrating New Year’s Eve when the fire erupted.

    Current official reports indicate at least 115 individuals sustained injuries of varying severity, with between 80 to 100 classified as seriously wounded. Authorities have cautioned that the death toll may potentially rise due to the critical condition of many victims. The multinational nature of the casualties reflects the resort’s popularity among international tourists, though specific nationalities have not yet been formally disclosed.

    Swiss investigative authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, but have confirmed that the precise cause of the fire remains undetermined at this preliminary stage. Emergency response teams continue to operate at the scene as recovery efforts progress.

  • 3.8 Magnitude Earthquake Marks 2026’s First in Antigua

    3.8 Magnitude Earthquake Marks 2026’s First in Antigua

    The Eastern Caribbean region experienced a seismic event on the first morning of the new year when a 3.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Antigua and Barbuda. According to precise measurements from the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre, the tremor originated at 6:24 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located northwest of Antigua at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.

    The seismic activity was perceptible across multiple island territories, with residents from St. Kitts and Nevis to Montserrat reporting noticeable ground vibrations. Despite the widespread awareness of the earthquake, preliminary assessments indicate no structural damage to buildings or infrastructure across the affected islands. Local authorities have confirmed that no injuries or casualties resulted from the geological event.

    Monitoring agencies have maintained vigilant observation of the region’s seismic activity following the initial tremor. The Eastern Caribbean region, situated within an active seismic zone, frequently experiences such geological events due to complex tectonic interactions between the Caribbean Plate and neighboring plates. The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre continues to track potential aftershocks while providing regular updates to regional emergency management organizations.

  • Hunting Season closed

    Hunting Season closed

    The Forestry Department under the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry has announced a comprehensive prohibition on wildlife hunting effective January 1, 2026, through September 30, 2026, with potential for further extension. This protective measure establishes a closed season for all game species throughout this nine-month period.

    Authorities have specifically highlighted several vulnerable species requiring enhanced protection, including the Tatou (armadillo), Manicou (opossum), Ramier (pigeon), Iguana, and the Mona Monkey. The department has issued stern warnings against hunting these animals during the mandated conservation period.

    The regulatory framework establishes significant penalties for violations, with offenders facing substantial fines of up to $1,000 or potential imprisonment for six months. These stringent measures aim to deter illegal hunting activities and ensure compliance with wildlife protection protocols.

    In an official statement, the Forestry Department emphasized the critical importance of collective public cooperation in conservation efforts. The initiative seeks to promote sustainable utilization of wildlife resources while maintaining ecological balance for future generations. The ministry has called upon citizens to actively participate in preserving the nation’s natural heritage throughout 2026 and beyond.

    The Ministry of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship through this protective legislation, recognizing the vital role biodiversity plays in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting sustainable development goals.

  • SLBMC Welcomes First New Year Baby

    SLBMC Welcomes First New Year Baby

    The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre in Antigua witnessed a uniquely auspicious beginning to 2026 with the arrival of its first and only New Year baby. In an announcement that brought cheer to the medical staff, a healthy infant girl was born to mother Junique Charles Archibald in the early hours of January 1st.

    Medical officials confirmed that both the newborn and her mother are in excellent health following the delivery. The birth holds special significance as it stands as the singular New Year celebration recorded within the facility’s maternity ward, creating a memorable milestone for healthcare professionals and the family involved.

    The occasion was further brightened by a generous community donation. The hospital administration publicly acknowledged Yvonne and Ronald Fraser for their thoughtful contribution of a gift basket to honor the newborn, characterizing their kindness as a heartwarming demonstration of civic spirit and support.

    In formal statements, hospital representatives extended their warmest congratulations to the Archibald family, expressing hopes for a joyful and prosperous start to the new year as they embrace their newest family member. The event underscores the continuing role of community-hospital partnerships in celebrating life’s most precious moments.

  • Cuban actress Adela Legra passes away

    Cuban actress Adela Legra passes away

    The Cuban film industry mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished actresses, Adelaida López Legra, who passed away in the early hours at a provincial hospital. The announcement was made by Alexis Triana, President of the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC), confirming the demise of the beloved screen legend known professionally as Adela Legra.

    Born in 1939 in Guantánamo, Legra’s extraordinary talent was first recognized by acclaimed filmmaker Humberto Solás, who catapulted her to stardom with her debut lead role in the medium-length film ‘Manuela’ (1965). This groundbreaking performance marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would span over four decades, establishing her as a foundational figure in Cuban cinema.

    Her artistic partnership with Solás yielded some of Cuba’s most significant cinematic works, including the landmark historical trilogy ‘Lucía’ (1968), which remains a masterpiece of Latin American cinema, followed later by ‘Miel para Oshún’ (2001) and ‘Barrio Cuba’ (2005). Beyond these collaborations, Legra’s versatile acting graced numerous other productions including Sergio Giral’s ‘Rancheador’ (1976), Octavio Cortázar’s ‘El Brigadista’ (1977), Enrique Pineda’s ‘Aquella noche larga’ (1979), Luis Felipe Bernaza’s ‘Vals de la Habana Vieja’ (1988), and Juan Carlos Cremata’s ‘Nada’ (2001).

    Legra’s contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous honors, including the prestigious Heredia Plaque, tributes at the Havana Film Festival New York (2002), and recognition at the inaugural Gibara International Low-budget Film Festival (2003). Her legacy was further immortalized through two documentary films: ‘Adela un nombre de mujer’ (1999) and ‘Quien me quita lo bailao’ (2000), both dedicated to celebrating her life and career.

    The cultural community will pay final respects to the revered actress at El Calvario funeral home in Santiago de Cuba, where memorial services will be held in the coming hours, allowing colleagues, admirers, and the nation to bid farewell to an icon whose work became an integral part of Cuba’s cultural identity.

  • Belize to Resume US Shipments: Here’s What You Need to Know

    Belize to Resume US Shipments: Here’s What You Need to Know

    Beginning January 7, 2026, Belize will recommence postal shipments to the United States following a four-month operational pause. This suspension was precipitated by sweeping changes to U.S. customs regulations instituted by Executive Order 14324, signed by President Donald Trump on July 30, 2025.

    The landmark policy shift eliminated the longstanding de minimis threshold, which had previously exempted imported goods valued under $800 from customs duties and formal processing. The new mandate requires that every parcel entering the United States, irrespective of its declared value, must now undergo customs clearance and be subject to applicable tariffs.

    Dr. Marsha Price, Postmaster General of the Belize Postal Service, characterized the U.S. rule change as a significant disruption to global postal logistics. “The conventional practice has always placed the responsibility for collecting customs duties on the destination country. This policy reversal presented an unprecedented challenge for postal administrations worldwide,” Dr. Price stated. The hiatus was necessary to await a standardized international framework from the Universal Postal Union (UPU) to manage this new paradigm.

    The resumption of service will be facilitated by the UPU’s Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) system. This mechanism enables the calculation and pre-payment of all requisite duties and taxes in Belize prior to a package’s departure, streamlining its journey through U.S. customs.

    Key procedural changes for consumers include:
    – Mandatory customs duties on all U.S.-bound parcels, removing the previous value-based exemption.
    – Full pre-payment of all estimated duties and fees within Belize.
    – Online accessibility for shipping cost calculations to facilitate informed planning.
    – In-person assistance at post offices for customers lacking internet access.

    A phased soft launch is scheduled for January 5, leading to a full public rollout on January 7. Dr. Price assured the public of the postal service’s commitment, affirming, “We are here to assist our customers throughout this entire new process.”

  • Police investigate shooting at Goodwill Link Road

    Police investigate shooting at Goodwill Link Road

    Authorities in the Commonwealth of Dominica have initiated a formal investigation following reports of a shooting incident in the Goodwill Link Road area. The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) confirmed they are examining the alleged event, though specific details remain limited as the inquiry is in its preliminary stages.

    Law enforcement officials have not released information regarding potential victims, suspects, or the precise circumstances surrounding the incident. The absence of confirmed details has prompted heightened community awareness while authorities work to establish the facts.

    Dominica News Online (DNO), a primary local news source, has committed to tracking developments in this case and providing updates as official information emerges. The publication maintains its policy of verifying facts with relevant authorities before dissemination to ensure reporting accuracy.

    This incident marks another test for Dominica’s law enforcement agencies, which continue to address public safety concerns across the island nation. Residents near the Goodwill area have expressed concern while awaiting further clarification from police investigators.

    The CDPF has encouraged community members with relevant information to come forward and assist with their ongoing investigation into the matter.

  • Maduro Says He’s Ready to Talk With the U.S. “Wherever and Whenever”

    Maduro Says He’s Ready to Talk With the U.S. “Wherever and Whenever”

    Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has publicly declared his readiness to engage in diplomatic discussions with United States officials “wherever and whenever” they choose. This unexpected overture was delivered during a nationally televised address on Venezuelan state media this Thursday.

    The announcement arrives amidst escalating tensions between the two nations. According to a New York Times report, Venezuelan authorities have taken at least five American citizens into custody in recent months. U.S. officials under the Trump administration interpret these detentions as strategic maneuvers to gain diplomatic leverage.

    Maduro’s conciliatory statement follows unconfirmed reports of a military incident involving U.S. forces. President Donald Trump previously asserted that American military assets targeted a Venezuelan dock facility allegedly connected to narcotics trafficking. Subsequent intelligence suggests the operation may have been conducted by the Central Intelligence Agency utilizing drone technology, which—if verified—would represent the first acknowledged U.S. military action within Venezuelan territory.

    When questioned about the alleged strike, Maduro remained noncommittal, indicating the matter “could be discussed in a few days.”

    This diplomatic development occurs against the backdrop of intensified U.S. naval operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific regions. Over the past quarter, American forces have interdicted multiple vessels suspected of transporting illicit narcotics.

    Maduro has consistently rejected allegations of his government’s involvement in drug trafficking operations, characterizing the U.S. anti-narcotics campaign as a pretext for regime change and attempted control over Venezuela’s substantial petroleum reserves. The situation further deteriorated in December when U.S. authorities seized two oil tankers and pursued another, citing violations of international sanctions. Venezuela’s government has condemned these actions as acts of “international piracy.”